Big Sur River Inn Nature photoBig Sur River Inn Exterior photoBig Sur River Inn Exterior photo
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From240US$ /night
Check-in
20Apr2026Select date
Check-out
21Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

Hotel Overview and Details

46800 Highway One, Big Sur, California, United States, 93920
-
Near Pfeiffer Beach
Very good
7.7
/10
3.5
3.8
/5

Location

The Big Sur River Inn is situated along the picturesque Big Sur River, surrounded by towering redwoods. It serves as a central location for exploring the breathtaking natural beauty of the Big Sur area, with easy access to nearby state parks. Visitors can enjoy scenic views and outdoor adventures just steps from the inn.

Rooms

The hotel offers various accommodations, including riverside suites that overlook the expansive lawn and Big Sur River. There are also motel-style ridge rooms located along Historic Highway One, ensuring proximity to the main lodge. Each room captures the essence of a cozy cabin retreat amid the majestic redwoods.

Dining

The on-site restaurant at Big Sur River Inn serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with outdoor seating options along the riverbank. Guests can enjoy unique dining experiences, including a famous burrito bar located in the general store. The property also features an ice cream bus that offers popular flavors, making it a hit with families.

Events

The inn provides indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for hosting special events, including weddings and group retreats. Collaborations with local vendors allow for customized event experiences tailored to guests' needs. The lush grounds and surrounding redwoods create an exceptional backdrop for memorable gatherings.

Shopping

Visitors can explore the general store on-site, which offers an array of snacks, beverages, and Big Sur merchandise to take home. The store features locally-sourced products and handmade items, presenting a chance to support the family-owned business. It serves as a convenient stop for any essentials needed during a stay.

Highlights

Location: Situated along Big Sur River

Rooms: Riverside suites and motel-style ridge rooms

Dining: On-site restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Events: Ideal spaces for weddings and retreats

Shopping: General store with locally-sourced products

Must-do experiences

  • Hike the stunning McWay Falls Trail for breathtaking coastal views.
  • Savor a meal at Nepenthe, known for its incredible sunset vistas.
  • Visit the Henry Miller Memorial Library for local art and culture.
  • Don't miss the Big Sur River Park for kayaking and picnicking fun.
  • Explore the unique art at Point Sur Lightstation for history buffs.
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Choose Your Room Category

The hotel offers a range of accommodations including doubles, family rooms, and suites—plus breakfast, free cancellation, and special rates.
Queen Room Two Queen Beds
2 persons
260 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Coffee machine
Heating
Queen Room
2 persons
185 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Coffee machine
Heating
Suite River View
2 persons
345 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Coffee machine
Heating
Deluxe Suite ADA
2 persons
345 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Coffee machine
Heating
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Room Availability and Pricing Calendar

Find available rooms and check today's best prices!

Facilities

This hotel provides premium amenities for a memorable and relaxed stay
Facilities: Very good
7.9/10Review score

General

  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Free parking
  • Off-site car park
  • No pets allowed
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Vending machines
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Sports & Fitness

  • Hiking

Services

  • Housekeeping

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Seasonal outdoor pool
  • Garden area

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Sitting area
  • Patio

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At Big Sur River Inn, dining unfolds beside the scenic banks of the Big Sur River, where the comforting heart of American cuisine meets the charm of outdoor gatherings. Whether it's a delightful breakfast or a casual riverside barbeque, the experience invites guests to savor hearty meals in a family-friendly and romantic atmosphere.

Big Sur River Inn Restaurant

American
Ambiance
Family-friendly riverside with outdoor decks and a cozy lawn setting
Key Offerings
Indulge in smoked ribs, brisket, and chicken, alongside vibrant sides. Start the day with huevos rancheros or banana walnut pancakes, complemented by a selection of reasonably priced beers and wines from a carefully crafted list.
Reservation
Not needed
Open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Hotel Location

46800 Highway One, Big Sur, California, United States, 93920
Map view
46800 Highway One, Big Sur, California, United States, 93920
Nearby
Big Sur
Spirit Garden
1100 ft
46840 Highway 1 Suite 6
Local Color
700 ft
Paul's Slide
1100 ft
Vicente Flat Trail
1100 ft
Kasler Point
1100 ft
Notley's Landing viewpoint
1100 ft
Restaurants
Big Sur River Inn
400 ft
46800 California 1
Big Sur Village General Store & Burrito Bar
500 ft
46842 Highway 1
Explore Big Sur
Explore Big Sur
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
30 minutes' walk
Forest trails and scenic landscapes make this park a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife watchers.
Pfeiffer Beach Day Use Area
Pfeiffer Beach Day Use Area
11-minute drive
Known for its unique purple sand and striking rock formations, this beach offers stunning views and peaceful relaxation.
Hiking at Pfeiffer Falls Trail
30 minutes' walk
A moderate trail leads to beautiful waterfalls, ideal for families and nature lovers, with nearby picnic spots.
Yoga Classes at Spirit Garden
4 minutes' walk
Serene outdoor yoga sessions in a picturesque garden setting, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Big Sur River Inn Restaurant
2 minutes' walk
Offers hearty comfort food in a cozy setting, with features like outdoor seating alongside the river.
Big Sur Village General Store & Burrito Bar
Big Sur Village General Store & Burrito Bar
2 minutes' walk
Casual eatery famous for its delicious burritos and quick bites, ideal for a laid-back meal.
Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge Viewing
6-minute drive
Picturesque vantage point for a family-friendly visit, perfect for sunset photography and nearby trails.
Local Color Art Gallery
3 minutes' walk
Art gallery featuring local artists with a cozy ambiance, often hosts events and live music nights.
Navigating city
City Centre
Big Sur4 min  ·  1000 ft
Airports
Monterey Peninsula (MRY)76 min  ·  31.1 mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-21:00
Check-out
until 12 pm
Guest Parking
Public parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
22

Guest Reviews and Hotel Ratings

Honest Guest Feedback Based on Real Stays
Review score
Based on 128 verified reviews
7.5/10
Very good
74%
Recommend
Cleanliness
8.3/10
Comfort
8.2/10
Facilities
7.9/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.3/10
Location
8.8/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Staff
8.2/10
Value for money
7.1/10
Pros
Scenic drive
Delicious food
Friendly staff
Cozy atmosphere
Cons
Limited WiFi
Highway noise
Misleading information
Single pane windows
Guest reviews
based on 322 reviews
7.7/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
Open reviews
Questions of the users
About Big Sur River Inn
Is the swimming pool heated during the summer months?
10 July 2024
The swimming pool is indeed heated during summer, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests.
Can an extra bed be added in a suite when traveling with children?
23 August 2024
Regrettably, the suites cannot accommodate an additional bed or rollaway bed.
What are the cancellation policies for reservations made through Booking.com?
15 March 2025
Reservations made via Booking.com are non-cancelable.
Is late check-in available, and what about air conditioning in the rooms?
5 November 2024
Yes, late check-in is available. Information will be provided for room access if arrival occurs after office hours. Please note that there is no air conditioning in any of the rooms.
Are pets allowed at the property, specifically small dogs?
12 April 2025
Unfortunately, the hotel does not accommodate pets, including small dogs.
What types of dining options are available at the restaurant?
20 June 2024
Enjoy a full-service restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner on scenic outdoor decks or along the bank of the Big Sur River.
Is there an option for guests to purchase merchandise or souvenirs from the property?
30 September 2024
Yes, there is an online store where guests can shop for a variety of Big Sur River Inn merchandise and souvenirs.
Are there any accessible rooms available for guests with disabilities?
8 October 2025
Yes, there is one ADA accessible room featuring a spacious bathroom with roll-in shower and other accessible amenities.
Can the Big Sur River Inn host events or weddings?
14 February 2025
The Big Sur River Inn is an excellent location for weddings and events, offering both indoor and outdoor settings for gatherings.
What activities are available for guests to enjoy on the property?
28 January 2025
Guests can explore the scenic grounds, relax in Adirondack chairs by the river, or dine on the lawn while soaking in the beautiful surroundings of Big Sur.

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20Apr2026Select date
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Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room